Investigating how gasdermins affect brain cell activation and degeneration in ALS and frontotemporal dementia
Official title: The role of gasdermins in microglial activation and neurodegeneration in ALS/FTD
Funded at Harvard Medical School · NIH-11032726 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called gasdermin-D affects brain cells that help keep our brains healthy, specifically in people with ALS and frontotemporal dementia, to find new ways to help improve their condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harvard Medical School NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2023 |
| Project end | March 3, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $74,284 |
| NIH project number | 5F32AG084174-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11032726 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or frontotemporal dementia.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other neurodegenerative diseases not related to ALS or FTD may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of a protein called gasdermin-D in the activation of microglial cells, which are crucial for brain health, in the context of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). The study uses animal models to observe how changes in gasdermin-D levels impact neurodegeneration and disease progression. By examining these mechanisms, the research aims to uncover potential therapeutic targets that could improve outcomes for patients with these conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that slow down or alter the progression of ALS and FTD.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding microglial activation in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Harvard Medical School
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gunner, Georgia — Harvard Medical School
- Study coordinator: Gunner, Georgia
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.